Man charged with felony strangulation

A Ronan man is accused of choking his soon-to-be ex-wife.

Ted James Coffman, 41, entered a plea of not guilty in Polson District Court Oct. 12 to felony strangulation of a partner or family member and misdemeanor unlawful restraint.

According to court records, on Sept. 12, Lake County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a report of an assault at a Ronan residence. At the scene, deputies spoke with a woman who indicated that Coffman was upset and asking why she was divorcing him.

She said the situation escalated and that Coffman went to where she was sitting on a couch and “locked her in using his legs” and told her to shut her mouth. He allegedly grabbed her by the neck with both hands and choked her, rendering her unable to breath.

She also indicated that she thought Coffman was going to kill her. She said he eventually stopped choking her but prevented her from leaving the house by blocking the door and telling her she’s “not going anywhere.”

The woman had already started divorce proceedings and filed for a temporary order of protection, which was granted.

Judge Deborah “Kim” Christopher set a trial date of March 11. Coffman is at liberty.